Haigamine Observatory

Haigamine Observatory (灰ヶ峰 展望台, Haigamine Tenbōdai), renowned as one of Japan’s top 100 scenic spots, offers visitors breathtaking panoramic views from its vantage point over 700 meters above sea level. Located near Hiroshima in the city of Kure, this lookout provides sweeping vistas of the bustling cityscape below, the shimmering expanse of the Seto Inland Sea, and the scattered islands dotting Hiroshima Bay. While the drive up the winding roads can be demanding for less experienced drivers, many choose to embark on a rewarding 1.5-hour hike, which weaves through serene forest trails and reveals glimpses of nature’s beauty along the way.

The observatory is especially captivating during two key moments: at dawn, when the sunrise casts a golden glow over the landscape, and at night, when Haigamine’s famous city lights illuminate the darkness. The nighttime view, ranked among Japan’s top three urban lightscapes, is a dazzling spectacle where countless shimmering lights stretch out to the horizon, reaching all the way to Hiroshima Bay. Whether bathed in early morning light or sparkling under the stars, Haigamine Observatory promises an unforgettable experience that perfectly captures the harmony between nature and city life.